I’ve stressed many times that the “off-season” is the best time to work on your game. The reason being is that you aren’t playing much at all and therefore, the pressure and expectations aren’t there. Instead, the focus can be on changing your technique as opposed to where the ball is going.But coming out improperly dressed for lessons or practice during the winter can be quite a turn off. I’ve seen many come out to the range on a freezing day dressed like it’s 60 out and after being miserable for an hour, they hang up the sticks until spring. If you come prepared, you will not only have fun and enjoy your practice session, but it will be more productive.Since I am the one standing there, I bundle up like I’m going sledding, but my students are often able to shed layers as they warm up into their practice sessions. Non the less, dressing “too warm” from head to toe is the best way to go as you always have the opportunity to take layers off.So what are the tricks to staying warm?1) First and foremost is the knit cap. Your mom probably always told you to keep your head warm and that heat escapes if it’s not covered. Knit caps are great for golf and make a HUGE difference. They are comfortable and don’t get in the way so it’s a no brainer.2) Next, wear Under Armour or some other warming clothes underneath your layers. Picking shirts that are designed to keep you warm will make a huge difference. The same goes for leggings. At the very least wear a layer of long underwear and on top of your pants a good storm pant will make a difference. I am on Adidas staff and they make a great storm pant that I slip on over my golf slacks.3) Winter gloves. Are they a good idea? I find them bulky and annoying, but some practice is better than no practice at all and they do keep your hands from freezing. Technology has come a long way since they first came out so not only are they thinner, they are warmer and more comfortable all around.4) Hand warmers. These are great for sticking your hands in your pockets in between swings and warming up your finger tips. I also stick them under my toes in my shoes and it works like a charm!5) Proper shoes. Many tennis shoe designs are for keeping your feet cool. They are like nets that allow your feet to breath. This is not good for cold blustery conditions. Leather golf shoes are much better. So even though you may like to hop out of your car and practice in your sneakers, take the time to put on golf shoes. Better yet is a good outdoor hiking shoe designed to keep your feet warm in cold conditions. I have had both Keens and Merrells that have both been much warmer than tennis shoes and kept my toes warm while I was standing out on the range all day.Golf is a year round game. Remember that it was invented in Scotland where it is often cool and damp. Just because we have 4 months or so of cold doesn’t mean you should let your game get rusty. Be prepared, dress warm and you will have fun. The Big Bend Golf Center now has wind shields between the stalls to make your practice even warmer on windy days.

Maria Palozola

The Golf Tips Blog of One of the Leading Golf Instructors in the St. Louis area.